Marine biodiesel prices in Rotterdam fall to record low

Marine biodiesel prices in Rotterdam fell to a record low of $985/t before recovering to around $1,240/t. When European emissions compliance costs are taken into account, biodiesel has become cheaper than several conventional marine fuels.

By comparison, marine gasoil rose to $1,528.5/t from around $714.5/t before supply disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East. In July, marine biodiesel in Rotterdam had traded as high as $1,388/t.

Lower biodiesel prices have been supported by producers seeking to increase sales and meet EU emissions-reduction targets. A significant share of marine biodiesel in Rotterdam is produced from waste feedstocks, including used cooking oil and palm oil processing residues, making its price less exposed to the rise in fossil fuel costs.

Demand is already responding to the changing price environment. Sales of marine biodiesel blends in Rotterdam more than doubled quarter on quarter in Q2 2026. Biodiesel can be used in most modern marine engines with only minimal technical modifications.

However, biofuels still account for only around 0.6% of global marine fuel consumption. Further growth will depend on prices, feedstock availability and regulatory requirements, while biodiesel’s lower energy density means vessels need roughly 7–10% more fuel for the same voyage compared with conventional fuels.

Tags: prices, Rotterdam, marine biodiesel